Protecting infrastructure

New buildings that house essential services, are iconic or have high public footfall will be designated by MHA as Special Developments, and existing ones will be designated as Special Infrastructures.

Owners of Special Developments must assess their security risks and incorporate suitable measures into their design before they are built, and for Special Infrastructures, when they are to be renovated. The security measures include deploying CCTVs, security personnel and vehicle barriers, and strengthening the building against blasts.

MHA will also be able to direct owners of selected buildings to put in place additional security measures to guard against terrorist attacks. If a terrorist attack is assessed to be imminent, emergency orders can be issued to protect a building.

Sensitive installations are known as Protected Areas (PAs) or Protected Places (PPs). The Act provides authorised officers with powers to deal with potential security threats in the surrounding area of PAs and PPs.

For example:

• Security personnel will have powers to question suspicious persons and inspect their belongings, and to require them to leave the area. Signs will be displayed at the perimeter of the PAs or PPs to indicate that these powers apply.

• Unauthorised photography and videography of PAs and PPs is an offence under the IPA. Authorised security personnel can stop persons from taking photographs and videos, and take follow-up actions, such as examining and requiring deletion of the images. Signs will be displayed at the perimeter of the PAs or PPs if no photography or videography is allowed.

The Act allows the authorities to issue directives and orders to protect buildings against terrorist attacks. MHA will first rely on engaging building owners to voluntarily take practical steps, before considering whether directives or orders need to be issued.